Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 63%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
Client with HIVA nurse is caring for a client who has HIV. Which of the following laboratory values is the nurse's priority?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: CD4-T-cell count 180 cells/mm┬│. The CD4-T-cell count is crucial in evaluating the immune status of a person with HIV. A count of 180 cells/mm┬│ indicates severe immunosuppression and an increased risk of opportunistic infections. Monitoring and maintaining the CD4 count above certain levels are essential for guiding treatment decisions and preventing complications.
Incorrect options:
A: Positive Western blot test - This confirms HIV infection but does not provide information on disease progression or immune status.
C: Platelets 150,000/mm┬│ - Platelet count is important, but it is not the priority in this scenario as it does not directly reflect the immune function.
D: WBC 5,000/mm┬│ - White blood cell count is important for assessing overall immune function but not as specific or critical as the CD4 count in HIV management.
Incorrect options:
A: Positive Western blot test - This confirms HIV infection but does not provide information on disease progression or immune status.
C: Platelets 150,000/mm┬│ - Platelet count is important, but it is not the priority in this scenario as it does not directly reflect the immune function.
D: WBC 5,000/mm┬│ - White blood cell count is important for assessing overall immune function but not as specific or critical as the CD4 count in HIV management.